rancid

[ran-sid] / ˈræn sɪd /

ADJECTIVE

rotten, strong-smelling

Synonyms

STRONGEST

contaminated disagreeable fetid moldy musty polluted putrid smelly soured stale tainted

WEAK

bad carious curdled decomposing disgusting evil-smelling feculent foul frowzy fusty gamy high impure loathsome malodorous nasty nidorous noisome noxious off offensive olid putrefactive putrefied putrescent rank reeky repulsive sharp sour stinking strong turned unhealthy whiffy

Antonyms

STRONGEST

clean fresh new perfumed pure sweet

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

As Nolso opens the door, a rancid odour escaped.

From Barron's • Mar. 3, 2026

Perhaps Robinson's big mistake is refusing to own his rancid commentary.

From Salon • Sep. 21, 2024

On Aug. 15, a worker overfilled a leachate storage tank, causing 3,000 gallons of rancid liquid waste to spill.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 30, 2024

Poor quality oil, or rancid oil, will have a lower smoke point.

From Seattle Times • May 20, 2024

Partly because his rancid smell was now up close and personal.

From "The Sea of Monsters" by Rick Riordan

Vocabulary lists containing rancid

The Cay

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Oh, No! Synonyms for "Bad"

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Front Desk

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